Letter from O. M. Wozencraft to Luke Lea, 1851

[Cover]
California W 35.
San Diego Cala Jan. 9th
1852 (not dated)
O.M. Wozencraft
U S. Ind. Agent
Middle District of California
Letter of advice and transmittal of Treaties and Claims ~~
Report of hostilities in Southern California - his visit there - operations of the military - Subjugation of the Indians - Encloses two treaties of Peace made with Several tribes on 5th & 7 Jany 52 - Estimates $200.000 as necessary to carry out the treaties and meet expenses already incurred &c An expedition is fitting out for Colorada [Colorado] river. Had to employ at San Diego an Interpreter, Mr J. Hamilton - Enc. a claim of J.J. Warner for property stolen or destroyed by hostile Indians - recommends its settlement. Isaac Williams has a claim for feeding Indians - who will go to Congress for justice. &c
Recd 18 Feb 1852
[checkmark] File.
18 Cir
[Letter P. 1]
Hon Luke Lea Commissioner of Indian Affairs~~
Sir
In conformity with the statement made in my last communication I left San Francisco on the evening of the 8th for San Diego, on the Coast Steamer. In pursuance of instructions I used the most stringent economy; going without Secretary or Employe's [Employees] of any kind, not so much as a servant to attend to my wants in my enfeebled state of health.
Genl. Hitchcock responded to and exceeded my request, for a small escort, (in order to visit, those Indians who had commenced war against the Americans,) by sending some 35 men under Lieut. Frazer 2d. Inf. with an additional force, taken on board at Monterey, of sixteen men commanded by Lieut. Hamilton 3d Arty. We arrived at San Diego on the 13th inst. and immediately thereon had an interview with Maj. Heintzelman Commanding Southern District--
Then we had full confirmation of the reports that the Indians had assumed a hostile attitude, and in all probability had effected [illegible: line/fold in original document?] to some extent had massacred some seven or eight
*And further learned that owing to the fact that their designs having been discovered - a portion of them refused to join in the hostile movement, and took steps to have the principal leader arrested, which was effected by Juan Antonio's arresting Antonio Garra, Being deprived of the anticipated support of Juan Antonio, and losing their Capt. Antonio Garra some sought safety by going out of the way, and some few came in and gave themselves up, among them an American and a Mexican; they were tried, convicted, and executed in San Diego, yet a portion stood out and in open hostility, against those we determined to move and if possible punish before offering overtures of peace -
[P. 2]
Hon. Luke Lea Commissioner of Indian Affairs
Sir
In conformity with the statement made in my last communication I left San Francisco on the evening of the 8th for San Diego, on the Coast Steamer. In pursuance of instructions I used the most stringent economy; going without Secretary or Employe's of any kind, not so much as a servant to attend to my wants in my enfeebled state of health.
Genl. Hitchcock responded to and exceeded my request for a small escort, (in order to visit those Indians who had commenced war against the Americans,) by sending some 35 men under Lieut. Frazer 2d. Inf. with an additional force, taken on board at Monterey, of sixteen men commanded by Lieut. Hamilton 3d Arty. We arrived at San Diego on the 13th inst. and immediately thereon had an interview with Maj. Heintzelman Commanding, Southern District.
Then we had full confirmation of the reports that the Indians had assumed a hostile attitude, and in all probability had effected combinations to some extent, had massacred some seven or eight whites and destroyed considerable property. Their declaration was that they would kill and drive out of the country all Americans. Evidence went to show that they were instigated to take this step, by some of the Native Californians inducing them to believe that they (the Californians) would join them * (vertical: Note on the margin) On learning the foregoing facts, we deemed it impolitic to approach them in an attitude that might be construed by them as suppliant. Maj. Heintzelman concurring, it was determined to take all of his disposable force against them. Orders were immediately given to that officer and accordingly
[P. 3]
the command moved the following day numbering about eighty men, commanded by Maj. Heintzelman in person. On our way out we met the command that had been stationed on the Colorado, accompanied by the command of Maj. Kendrick who had come in with his command as escort to the Surveying Expedition from New Mexico under Capt. Sitgreaves. The Command at the river had been besieged by the Indians, and dispersed on the arrival of the Escort. The Post being short of provisions and too Small to operate against the Indians, it was deemed expedient to vacate it. The Escort found the Indians for some two hundred miles above the post hostile, and very troublesome, thus adding further confirmation to the statements that the Indians were acting in cooperation. Major Heintzelman ordered the command from the above named Post to join him, thus increasing his force to some hundred men. All the arrangements were speedily made to move against the Indians, who were supposed to have assembled in a valley on the Eastern slope of the Mountains at a place called Los Coyotes, opening into the Desert. The plan of attack was made by dividing the command into two detachments. The one under Maj. Heintzelman to cross the mountains, from Santa Ysabel, South of a direct line, to the place indicated and to enter the valley from the Desert; the other under Col. Magruder to cross in as direct a line as possible entering the head of the valley at a given hour. We left Camp Ysabel on the 19th, and giving a sufficient time for the command to make the more circuitous route, we reached the head of the Valley Los Coyotes on the forenoon of the 21st a few hours later than the other command, they having entered the Valley at the dawn of the day ~ Here they were met by the Indians (who were apprized of their approach) in considerable numbers, they
[P. 4]
advanced on the soldiers and commenced firing, which was returned with spirit. So much so, that after a short contest the Indians fled up the the mountains leaving two of their principal leaders dead on the fields, with a number of others who are supposed to be killed, as they have not since been heard of. Some prisoners were taken, and others soon came in with friendly protestations. Of these I demanded that they should send for the surrounding tribes, and deliver up all those that were instigators and active participants in the late massacre and loss of property. This was complied with as far as it was in their power so to do, Some coming in through the command of their Captains, others brought in by force. Thus all within reach were brought before us. It was deemed advisable to give them a trial on the battle fields, accordingly a Council of War was convened, by order of the Commander, comprised of eight commissioned Officers -- Col. Magruder 1st Arty. President --Lieut. Hamilton 3d Arty, Recorder.
I was invited to be present and participate in their deliberations. After a patient and protracted trial, during which many outrages were examined into, the Council found four of the Indians guilty of murder, arson, and Roberry, and sentenced them accordingly to be executed forthwith which was approved by myself and the Commanding Officer who ordered their execution, which was carried into effect on the morning of the 25th in presence of the assembled Indians, to whom I made a short but pertinent address-- They all admitted the punishment to be just and well deserved. That it will have a good effect I have no doubt; indeed to have done less after they knew we were aware of their guilt would have been fraught with evil; As it is, we may confidently anticipate a continued peace --- -- Temecula was
[P. 5]
named by me as the place of the meeting for all the tribes of the Cahuiyas nation; couriers were dispatched to the various tribes with direction to meet me at the above named place as soon as they could assemble -- In the mean time I mentioned the names of some four or five who from the evidence elicited on trial were equally guilty with those who paid the penalty with their life, and told them that they likewise must be given up whenever they could be found. I have learned to-day that most if not all have been delivered up to the Commander of the Militia of the District, thus terminating by the most fortunate events a war that bade fair to drive the Sparce American population out of the country. The Native Californians were not disturbed, indeed the Chief Captain of the Indians who is now a prisoner, persisits in declaring that they were instigated to commence the war by Californians, whose names he gives. There is some confirmation of this statement by letters which were intercepted; the Indian Captain having received an education in one of the Missions is enabled to write.
The reasons assigned by them for commencing the war, are that they were unjustly taxed and, as before stated, urged to do so by the Californians -- The failure of the fulfilment [fulfillment] of promises made them by Genl. Kearney when passing through this country on his way to San Diego - And the non-fulfilment [fulfillment] of Col. Barbour's promise to meet them and make a treaty last fall or summer - All, together, leading them to believe in the infidelity of the Americans, yet I must say that those Indians who have had more immediate intercourse with the Americans did not join in the movement, but on the contrary have rendered essential service in bringing the troubles to a close.~~
(Written vertically on right-hand side:)
[California/1852 / W 35]
[P. 6]
Before leaving San Francisco, being apprehensive that those Indians in the Tulare Valley who had been treated with by Col. Barbour but who had not, as yet, received the Beef promised, would join in the hostile movement, I dispatched Capt. L.D. Vinsonhaler to go among them to ascertain the facts, and endeavor to prevent it should anything of the kind be in contemplation -- He has just come in and has informed me that couriers were sent up through the above named section of country, by the head chiefs here urging the Tulare Indians to join in the war. They, the Tulare Indians refused, stating that they had made a treaty, and intended to stand by it, and do so long as the Americans would fulfil [fulfill] their promises, or part of the contract, they, the Indians, would be faithful in fulfiling [fulfilling] theirs. After learning these facts they were called together and a feast was given them, with the renewed promise that they should have all that had been promised in due time. Thus it will be perceived that a very formidable combination has been prevented by having made a treaty with a portion, at the same time the failing to treat with others has been a fruitful cause of the war~~
[P. 7]
Juan Antonio with his people came in several days after the appointed time and probably would not then have come, had not the Hon. J.J. Warner gone to him with a pertinent talk - He evidently was fully inflated with his self-sufficiency and would have me to know all that he had done and intended doing -- Indeed he wished me to believe that he was a faithful guardian and had taken charge of the government of Indian affairs.
We deem it bad policy to have any one Indian exercise a controlling influence over many. Accordingly we placed Capt. Antonio in his proper position, after informing him that we know of his attempt to get other Indians to engage with him in the war, these Indians refusing, and of his failure alone inducing him to be a good friend to the Americans.
At length we consummated a treaty with the three Nations, all of them once of the same family, and are estimated at fifteen or twenty thousand souls, impressing on them the necessity of going to work, and their individual responsibility for all derelictions - that they had no great Captain who could order them to do anything that was wrong.
We demanded that all the Stock in the possession of those Indians who had been in open hostility should be brought in for examination - it was complied with
[P. 8]
but no ill-gotten Stock was found; in this they showed their perfect subjugation.
Some twenty Captains representing the various bands of the Diequinos were found assembled in compliance with appointment at Santa Ysabel. These are mostly peaceable and inoffensive Indians, requiring nothing more than a home and some little assistance in the way of living. We concluded a Treaty with them-- --
The lands included in the two Reservations are very Mountainous - within this mountain range there are some fertile valleys. All together would be insufficient to support them; we (as will be perceived) embraced two valleys that are covered by grants. With these we deem there will be a sufficiency of good soil to support all the Indians of the South--
At the same time we have been mindful not to rob Peter to pay Paul for I presume there is no white man that would be willing to live on the lands - except in case of sickness he chose to visit the Hot Sulphur Springs or as it is called in the Language of the Country "Agua Caliente"
The smmary retribution that has fallen on these Indians will have the effect to keep them at peace--
The Hon. J.J. Warner, the most unfortunate
[P. 9]
surviving sufferer in the late outbreak has determined to lay his claims before Congress for renumeration of losses - I would merely wish to state in relation to this matter - that I have deviated so far in this case from all former claims which have been brought to my notice - that I have recommended him to make application for renumeration of losses, believing it to be nothing but right and just - It is true, no treaty had been made with those Indians (the grounds that I presume will debar other claims) Yet a proposition and engagement had been made with them to treat and afterwards was not complied with by us - Indeed this was assigned to us as one of the Strongest Causes of the war,- and from all proceeding occurrances it will appear evident that making treaties has Effectually put a stop to and prevented like occurrances - I would respectfully recommend the adjudication and settlement of his claim--
Mr. Isaac Williams submitted his claim to the Commission for feeding, &c. the Indians when assembled at his place by the appointment of Col. Barbour. I presume Col. Barbour would have adjusted it had an opportunity presented before
[P. 10]
leaving the country. I would have included it with other estimates, but that it Embraces articles that I did not feel justified in allowing and presuming that Congress would do him justice, I left him the course he preferred i.e. letting Congress do him justice ~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~
In relation to the estimates which will be necessary to carry into fulfilment all the treaty stipulations of the South (Kah-we-as, San Luis Rey Indians, Co-con-cah-ras, Diequinos, and the Indians of the Colorado) I would place the Sum at, at least, Two Hundred Thousand Dollars, a portion of which should be appropriated by the present Congress for the Expenses already incurred and incurring, as it was so understood by the Contractors before I could find a man to do anything -- Indeed a man would be foolish in California who could get 10 per cent. per month for his money and whose cattle are nearly as good as Cash to him; to trust the Government until by dilatory Legislation he might get his pay. Had not this quick action been expected I would have been necessitated to pay much higher prices, and I am sorry to say, the indifferent or bad credit, that presumptive paper on the Government bears, makes it altogether a difficult matter to get credit -
Written vertically on right-hand side:)
[California 1852 / W 35]
[P. 11]
It is very unpleasant to me to have to State, as on former occasions, that I have been under the necessity of borrowing the money to bear my individual expenses, but the urgent public necessity left me no choice --
An expedition is being fitted out for the Colorado River and as soon as I receive information from the Commanding officer of the near approach of a successful stroke in that quarter I will immediately join him.
On arriving at San Diego I had to employ a Secretary on account of my feeble health and the difficulties of the march, though at first I expected to get along without one. Mr. John Hamilton received the appointment and he also acted as Interpreter for which services I allowed him $9 per diem~~
By severe personal exertions and a rigidly economical expenditure you will have perceived that the Government has been saved millions of dollars not considering the hundreds of innocent lives that might have been sacrificed in
[P. 12]
addition to the unhappy sufferers already sent to their account by these inhuman savages--
I am Sir
Very respectfully
Yr obdt Humble Svt--
O.M. Wozencraft
U.S.In. At.
Middle District
California
Hon. Luke Lea
Commissioner of Indian Affairs
Washington City D.C.
[P. 12]
Property taken or destroyed by Indians on about the 25th Nov. 1851 at the Ranch of the undersigned
50. Fifty Milk Cows & Calves @ 75$ 3750.00
100 One hundred Cows with Calves 60. 6000.00
100 One hundred head Young Stock 45. 4500.00
(note the above young stock and calves were half Bloods mostly of the Deerhorn Breed; and the Cows with calf mostly by a full bred Durham Bull)
1 one full bred Durham short horn Bull 1000.00
11 Eleven yoke oxen @ 150$ 1650.00
3 Three Large Horse & Male Waggons @ 150.- 450.00
2 Two as Ox as 125.- 250.00
3 Three running gear of waggon 100.- 300.00
5 Five pair waggon wheels and axels 30.- 150.00
2 Two cast iron Troughs 50.- 100.00
5 Five Sett Mule plough Harness 35 175.00
9 Nine as as Waggon as 50 450.00
12 Twelve Ox yokes 10.- 120.00
Blacksmith tools Complete & Extra 300.00
Carpenters and Joiners tools 250.00
Shovels (7) Hoes (9) Spades (8) Axes (9) Crowbars (5) 152.00
2 Two grain Cradles 45.$ 90.00
3 Three scythes & masks 10. 30.00
25 Twenty five Log & ox drawing chains 15$ 375.00
3 Three California Saddles & bridles @ 50. 150.00
18 Eighteen Bbls wine in vats @ 20 360.00
1000 One thousand feet Sawed boards 160.00
2 two cross cut saws 25. 50.00
3 Three Pit Saws 40- 120.00
3 Three hand saws 3.- 9.00
1 One bundle 100. Hoop Iron 25- 25.00
150 One hundred fifty pounds Cast Steel 75� 112.50 = 21078.50
[P. 13]
Brot. forward 21078.50
200 Two hundred pounds Blutes Steel @ 62 1/2 c 125.00
600 Six hundred as Iron 25. 150.00
1 One Chest Medicines and Some Instruments 250.00
1 Sett Dentists Instruments 150.00
15 Fifteen liquor and dry casks @ 10. 150.00
Dry goods, Shoes Hats & Clothing in store 7000.00
Kitchen Furniture 250.00
1 One small portable cooking stove New 50.00
1 One crate crockery & glassware 175.00
House Furniture 2500.00
3 Three pair Holster pistols @ 25. 75.00
Appurtenances of three Colts revolvers 35.00
5 Five Rifles & fowling pieces @ 60. 300.00
7 Seven as as as damgd 10. 70.00
Beds bedding & wearing apparel 2500.00
50 Fifty Bullock Hides - 2.50 125.00
40 Forty tanned deer skins 4.00 160.00
50 Fifty defsed as as 3.00 150.00
1 One Bale Yerba del Pueblo Poison 75.00
23 Tewenty three pounds Canister [illegible] 3- 69.00
60 Sixty fanegas seed wheat 10.- 600.00
40 Forty as as Barley 10. 400.00
13 Thirteen Sacks 13 cent. Wheat Flour 12.50 162.50
11 Eleven Fanegas Corn 10.- 110.00
150 One hundred fifty Fanegas Oats 5.- 750.00
15 Fifteen Fanegas Sate -10. 150.00
300 Three hundred pounds 1 1/2 Bbls Crushed [illegible] 25 75.00
House, out houses, Blacksmiths Shop Burnt 10000.00
Library and [illegible] Books 3500.00
Important and valuable papers and documents which cannot be replaced 5000.00
23 Twenty three Assare/ as park dealer Complete @ 25. 575.00 - 56769.00
[P. 14]
Brot. Forward 56769.00
46 Forty six bathes Bags @ 5.- 230.00
1 One hand cart 40.00
Table Furniture 500.00
Los American & Mexican saddles 150.00
Cask in House & Store 95.00
1 dozen Large heavy Iron Hoes 36.00
1 one seale Biam & weights (3000) 175.00
1 one pair Large Steel Yards 50.00
1 one patent counter scales & weights 75.00
1 Sett Mexican (Gold) weights & scale 50.00
1 Sett Troy as as 75.00
Provisions on hand - - - 500.00
$58.745.00
State of California
City + County of San Diego
This thirteenth day of Jan A.D. 1852 personally appeared before me J.J. Warner and made oath that the above account is correct in every particular, to the best of his knowledge and belief.
Jno. Judson Ames
Notary Public
[seal]

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[Cover]
California W 35.
San Diego Cala Jan. 9th
1852 (not dated)
O.M. Wozencraft
U S. Ind. Agent
Middle District of California
Letter of advice and transmittal of Treaties and Claims ~~
Report of hostilities in Southern California - his visit there - operations of the military - Subjugation of the Indians - Encloses two treaties of Peace made with Several tribes on 5th & 7 Jany 52 - Estimates $200.000 as necessary to carry out the treaties and meet expenses already incurred &c An expedition is fitting out for Colorada [Colorado] river. Had to employ at San Diego an Interpreter, Mr J. Hamilton - Enc. a claim of J.J. Warner for property stolen or destroyed by hostile Indians - recommends its settlement. Isaac Williams has a claim for feeding Indians - who will go to Congress for justice. &c
Recd 18 Feb 1852
[checkmark] File.
18 Cir
[Letter P. 1]
Hon Luke Lea Commissioner of Indian Affairs~~
Sir
In conformity with the statement made in my last communication I left San Francisco on the evening of the 8th for San Diego, on the Coast Steamer. In pursuance of instructions I used the most stringent economy; going without Secretary or Employe's [Employees] of any kind, not so much as a servant to attend to my wants in my enfeebled state of health.
Genl. Hitchcock responded to and exceeded my request, for a small escort, (in order to visit, those Indians who had commenced war against the Americans,) by sending some 35 men under Lieut. Frazer 2d. Inf. with an additional force, taken on board at Monterey, of sixteen men commanded by Lieut. Hamilton 3d Arty. We arrived at San Diego on the 13th inst. and immediately thereon had an interview with Maj. Heintzelman Commanding Southern District--
Then we had full confirmation of the reports that the Indians had assumed a hostile attitude, and in all probability had effected [illegible: line/fold in original document?] to some extent had massacred some seven or eight
*And further learned that owing to the fact that their designs having been discovered - a portion of them refused to join in the hostile movement, and took steps to have the principal leader arrested, which was effected by Juan Antonio's arresting Antonio Garra, Being deprived of the anticipated support of Juan Antonio, and losing their Capt. Antonio Garra some sought safety by going out of the way, and some few came in and gave themselves up, among them an American and a Mexican; they were tried, convicted, and executed in San Diego, yet a portion stood out and in open hostility, against those we determined to move and if possible punish before offering overtures of peace -
[P. 2]
Hon. Luke Lea Commissioner of Indian Affairs
Sir
In conformity with the statement made in my last communication I left San Francisco on the evening of the 8th for San Diego, on the Coast Steamer. In pursuance of instructions I used the most stringent economy; going without Secretary or Employe's of any kind, not so much as a servant to attend to my wants in my enfeebled state of health.
Genl. Hitchcock responded to and exceeded my request for a small escort, (in order to visit those Indians who had commenced war against the Americans,) by sending some 35 men under Lieut. Frazer 2d. Inf. with an additional force, taken on board at Monterey, of sixteen men commanded by Lieut. Hamilton 3d Arty. We arrived at San Diego on the 13th inst. and immediately thereon had an interview with Maj. Heintzelman Commanding, Southern District.
Then we had full confirmation of the reports that the Indians had assumed a hostile attitude, and in all probability had effected combinations to some extent, had massacred some seven or eight whites and destroyed considerable property. Their declaration was that they would kill and drive out of the country all Americans. Evidence went to show that they were instigated to take this step, by some of the Native Californians inducing them to believe that they (the Californians) would join them * (vertical: Note on the margin) On learning the foregoing facts, we deemed it impolitic to approach them in an attitude that might be construed by them as suppliant. Maj. Heintzelman concurring, it was determined to take all of his disposable force against them. Orders were immediately given to that officer and accordingly
[P. 3]
the command moved the following day numbering about eighty men, commanded by Maj. Heintzelman in person. On our way out we met the command that had been stationed on the Colorado, accompanied by the command of Maj. Kendrick who had come in with his command as escort to the Surveying Expedition from New Mexico under Capt. Sitgreaves. The Command at the river had been besieged by the Indians, and dispersed on the arrival of the Escort. The Post being short of provisions and too Small to operate against the Indians, it was deemed expedient to vacate it. The Escort found the Indians for some two hundred miles above the post hostile, and very troublesome, thus adding further confirmation to the statements that the Indians were acting in cooperation. Major Heintzelman ordered the command from the above named Post to join him, thus increasing his force to some hundred men. All the arrangements were speedily made to move against the Indians, who were supposed to have assembled in a valley on the Eastern slope of the Mountains at a place called Los Coyotes, opening into the Desert. The plan of attack was made by dividing the command into two detachments. The one under Maj. Heintzelman to cross the mountains, from Santa Ysabel, South of a direct line, to the place indicated and to enter the valley from the Desert; the other under Col. Magruder to cross in as direct a line as possible entering the head of the valley at a given hour. We left Camp Ysabel on the 19th, and giving a sufficient time for the command to make the more circuitous route, we reached the head of the Valley Los Coyotes on the forenoon of the 21st a few hours later than the other command, they having entered the Valley at the dawn of the day ~ Here they were met by the Indians (who were apprized of their approach) in considerable numbers, they
[P. 4]
advanced on the soldiers and commenced firing, which was returned with spirit. So much so, that after a short contest the Indians fled up the the mountains leaving two of their principal leaders dead on the fields, with a number of others who are supposed to be killed, as they have not since been heard of. Some prisoners were taken, and others soon came in with friendly protestations. Of these I demanded that they should send for the surrounding tribes, and deliver up all those that were instigators and active participants in the late massacre and loss of property. This was complied with as far as it was in their power so to do, Some coming in through the command of their Captains, others brought in by force. Thus all within reach were brought before us. It was deemed advisable to give them a trial on the battle fields, accordingly a Council of War was convened, by order of the Commander, comprised of eight commissioned Officers -- Col. Magruder 1st Arty. President --Lieut. Hamilton 3d Arty, Recorder.
I was invited to be present and participate in their deliberations. After a patient and protracted trial, during which many outrages were examined into, the Council found four of the Indians guilty of murder, arson, and Roberry, and sentenced them accordingly to be executed forthwith which was approved by myself and the Commanding Officer who ordered their execution, which was carried into effect on the morning of the 25th in presence of the assembled Indians, to whom I made a short but pertinent address-- They all admitted the punishment to be just and well deserved. That it will have a good effect I have no doubt; indeed to have done less after they knew we were aware of their guilt would have been fraught with evil; As it is, we may confidently anticipate a continued peace --- -- Temecula was
[P. 5]
named by me as the place of the meeting for all the tribes of the Cahuiyas nation; couriers were dispatched to the various tribes with direction to meet me at the above named place as soon as they could assemble -- In the mean time I mentioned the names of some four or five who from the evidence elicited on trial were equally guilty with those who paid the penalty with their life, and told them that they likewise must be given up whenever they could be found. I have learned to-day that most if not all have been delivered up to the Commander of the Militia of the District, thus terminating by the most fortunate events a war that bade fair to drive the Sparce American population out of the country. The Native Californians were not disturbed, indeed the Chief Captain of the Indians who is now a prisoner, persisits in declaring that they were instigated to commence the war by Californians, whose names he gives. There is some confirmation of this statement by letters which were intercepted; the Indian Captain having received an education in one of the Missions is enabled to write.
The reasons assigned by them for commencing the war, are that they were unjustly taxed and, as before stated, urged to do so by the Californians -- The failure of the fulfilment [fulfillment] of promises made them by Genl. Kearney when passing through this country on his way to San Diego - And the non-fulfilment [fulfillment] of Col. Barbour's promise to meet them and make a treaty last fall or summer - All, together, leading them to believe in the infidelity of the Americans, yet I must say that those Indians who have had more immediate intercourse with the Americans did not join in the movement, but on the contrary have rendered essential service in bringing the troubles to a close.~~
(Written vertically on right-hand side:)
[California/1852 / W 35]
[P. 6]
Before leaving San Francisco, being apprehensive that those Indians in the Tulare Valley who had been treated with by Col. Barbour but who had not, as yet, received the Beef promised, would join in the hostile movement, I dispatched Capt. L.D. Vinsonhaler to go among them to ascertain the facts, and endeavor to prevent it should anything of the kind be in contemplation -- He has just come in and has informed me that couriers were sent up through the above named section of country, by the head chiefs here urging the Tulare Indians to join in the war. They, the Tulare Indians refused, stating that they had made a treaty, and intended to stand by it, and do so long as the Americans would fulfil [fulfill] their promises, or part of the contract, they, the Indians, would be faithful in fulfiling [fulfilling] theirs. After learning these facts they were called together and a feast was given them, with the renewed promise that they should have all that had been promised in due time. Thus it will be perceived that a very formidable combination has been prevented by having made a treaty with a portion, at the same time the failing to treat with others has been a fruitful cause of the war~~
[P. 7]
Juan Antonio with his people came in several days after the appointed time and probably would not then have come, had not the Hon. J.J. Warner gone to him with a pertinent talk - He evidently was fully inflated with his self-sufficiency and would have me to know all that he had done and intended doing -- Indeed he wished me to believe that he was a faithful guardian and had taken charge of the government of Indian affairs.
We deem it bad policy to have any one Indian exercise a controlling influence over many. Accordingly we placed Capt. Antonio in his proper position, after informing him that we know of his attempt to get other Indians to engage with him in the war, these Indians refusing, and of his failure alone inducing him to be a good friend to the Americans.
At length we consummated a treaty with the three Nations, all of them once of the same family, and are estimated at fifteen or twenty thousand souls, impressing on them the necessity of going to work, and their individual responsibility for all derelictions - that they had no great Captain who could order them to do anything that was wrong.
We demanded that all the Stock in the possession of those Indians who had been in open hostility should be brought in for examination - it was complied with
[P. 8]
but no ill-gotten Stock was found; in this they showed their perfect subjugation.
Some twenty Captains representing the various bands of the Diequinos were found assembled in compliance with appointment at Santa Ysabel. These are mostly peaceable and inoffensive Indians, requiring nothing more than a home and some little assistance in the way of living. We concluded a Treaty with them-- --
The lands included in the two Reservations are very Mountainous - within this mountain range there are some fertile valleys. All together would be insufficient to support them; we (as will be perceived) embraced two valleys that are covered by grants. With these we deem there will be a sufficiency of good soil to support all the Indians of the South--
At the same time we have been mindful not to rob Peter to pay Paul for I presume there is no white man that would be willing to live on the lands - except in case of sickness he chose to visit the Hot Sulphur Springs or as it is called in the Language of the Country "Agua Caliente"
The smmary retribution that has fallen on these Indians will have the effect to keep them at peace--
The Hon. J.J. Warner, the most unfortunate
[P. 9]
surviving sufferer in the late outbreak has determined to lay his claims before Congress for renumeration of losses - I would merely wish to state in relation to this matter - that I have deviated so far in this case from all former claims which have been brought to my notice - that I have recommended him to make application for renumeration of losses, believing it to be nothing but right and just - It is true, no treaty had been made with those Indians (the grounds that I presume will debar other claims) Yet a proposition and engagement had been made with them to treat and afterwards was not complied with by us - Indeed this was assigned to us as one of the Strongest Causes of the war,- and from all proceeding occurrances it will appear evident that making treaties has Effectually put a stop to and prevented like occurrances - I would respectfully recommend the adjudication and settlement of his claim--
Mr. Isaac Williams submitted his claim to the Commission for feeding, &c. the Indians when assembled at his place by the appointment of Col. Barbour. I presume Col. Barbour would have adjusted it had an opportunity presented before
[P. 10]
leaving the country. I would have included it with other estimates, but that it Embraces articles that I did not feel justified in allowing and presuming that Congress would do him justice, I left him the course he preferred i.e. letting Congress do him justice ~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~
In relation to the estimates which will be necessary to carry into fulfilment all the treaty stipulations of the South (Kah-we-as, San Luis Rey Indians, Co-con-cah-ras, Diequinos, and the Indians of the Colorado) I would place the Sum at, at least, Two Hundred Thousand Dollars, a portion of which should be appropriated by the present Congress for the Expenses already incurred and incurring, as it was so understood by the Contractors before I could find a man to do anything -- Indeed a man would be foolish in California who could get 10 per cent. per month for his money and whose cattle are nearly as good as Cash to him; to trust the Government until by dilatory Legislation he might get his pay. Had not this quick action been expected I would have been necessitated to pay much higher prices, and I am sorry to say, the indifferent or bad credit, that presumptive paper on the Government bears, makes it altogether a difficult matter to get credit -
Written vertically on right-hand side:)
[California 1852 / W 35]
[P. 11]
It is very unpleasant to me to have to State, as on former occasions, that I have been under the necessity of borrowing the money to bear my individual expenses, but the urgent public necessity left me no choice --
An expedition is being fitted out for the Colorado River and as soon as I receive information from the Commanding officer of the near approach of a successful stroke in that quarter I will immediately join him.
On arriving at San Diego I had to employ a Secretary on account of my feeble health and the difficulties of the march, though at first I expected to get along without one. Mr. John Hamilton received the appointment and he also acted as Interpreter for which services I allowed him $9 per diem~~
By severe personal exertions and a rigidly economical expenditure you will have perceived that the Government has been saved millions of dollars not considering the hundreds of innocent lives that might have been sacrificed in
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addition to the unhappy sufferers already sent to their account by these inhuman savages--
I am Sir
Very respectfully
Yr obdt Humble Svt--
O.M. Wozencraft
U.S.In. At.
Middle District
California
Hon. Luke Lea
Commissioner of Indian Affairs
Washington City D.C.
[P. 12]
Property taken or destroyed by Indians on about the 25th Nov. 1851 at the Ranch of the undersigned
50. Fifty Milk Cows & Calves @ 75$ 3750.00
100 One hundred Cows with Calves 60. 6000.00
100 One hundred head Young Stock 45. 4500.00
(note the above young stock and calves were half Bloods mostly of the Deerhorn Breed; and the Cows with calf mostly by a full bred Durham Bull)
1 one full bred Durham short horn Bull 1000.00
11 Eleven yoke oxen @ 150$ 1650.00
3 Three Large Horse & Male Waggons @ 150.- 450.00
2 Two as Ox as 125.- 250.00
3 Three running gear of waggon 100.- 300.00
5 Five pair waggon wheels and axels 30.- 150.00
2 Two cast iron Troughs 50.- 100.00
5 Five Sett Mule plough Harness 35 175.00
9 Nine as as Waggon as 50 450.00
12 Twelve Ox yokes 10.- 120.00
Blacksmith tools Complete & Extra 300.00
Carpenters and Joiners tools 250.00
Shovels (7) Hoes (9) Spades (8) Axes (9) Crowbars (5) 152.00
2 Two grain Cradles 45.$ 90.00
3 Three scythes & masks 10. 30.00
25 Twenty five Log & ox drawing chains 15$ 375.00
3 Three California Saddles & bridles @ 50. 150.00
18 Eighteen Bbls wine in vats @ 20 360.00
1000 One thousand feet Sawed boards 160.00
2 two cross cut saws 25. 50.00
3 Three Pit Saws 40- 120.00
3 Three hand saws 3.- 9.00
1 One bundle 100. Hoop Iron 25- 25.00
150 One hundred fifty pounds Cast Steel 75� 112.50 = 21078.50
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Brot. forward 21078.50
200 Two hundred pounds Blutes Steel @ 62 1/2 c 125.00
600 Six hundred as Iron 25. 150.00
1 One Chest Medicines and Some Instruments 250.00
1 Sett Dentists Instruments 150.00
15 Fifteen liquor and dry casks @ 10. 150.00
Dry goods, Shoes Hats & Clothing in store 7000.00
Kitchen Furniture 250.00
1 One small portable cooking stove New 50.00
1 One crate crockery & glassware 175.00
House Furniture 2500.00
3 Three pair Holster pistols @ 25. 75.00
Appurtenances of three Colts revolvers 35.00
5 Five Rifles & fowling pieces @ 60. 300.00
7 Seven as as as damgd 10. 70.00
Beds bedding & wearing apparel 2500.00
50 Fifty Bullock Hides - 2.50 125.00
40 Forty tanned deer skins 4.00 160.00
50 Fifty defsed as as 3.00 150.00
1 One Bale Yerba del Pueblo Poison 75.00
23 Tewenty three pounds Canister [illegible] 3- 69.00
60 Sixty fanegas seed wheat 10.- 600.00
40 Forty as as Barley 10. 400.00
13 Thirteen Sacks 13 cent. Wheat Flour 12.50 162.50
11 Eleven Fanegas Corn 10.- 110.00
150 One hundred fifty Fanegas Oats 5.- 750.00
15 Fifteen Fanegas Sate -10. 150.00
300 Three hundred pounds 1 1/2 Bbls Crushed [illegible] 25 75.00
House, out houses, Blacksmiths Shop Burnt 10000.00
Library and [illegible] Books 3500.00
Important and valuable papers and documents which cannot be replaced 5000.00
23 Twenty three Assare/ as park dealer Complete @ 25. 575.00 - 56769.00
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Brot. Forward 56769.00
46 Forty six bathes Bags @ 5.- 230.00
1 One hand cart 40.00
Table Furniture 500.00
Los American & Mexican saddles 150.00
Cask in House & Store 95.00
1 dozen Large heavy Iron Hoes 36.00
1 one seale Biam & weights (3000) 175.00
1 one pair Large Steel Yards 50.00
1 one patent counter scales & weights 75.00
1 Sett Mexican (Gold) weights & scale 50.00
1 Sett Troy as as 75.00
Provisions on hand - - - 500.00
$58.745.00
State of California
City + County of San Diego
This thirteenth day of Jan A.D. 1852 personally appeared before me J.J. Warner and made oath that the above account is correct in every particular, to the best of his knowledge and belief.
Jno. Judson Ames
Notary Public
[seal]